At Renu by Dr. Schoenfeld, the Neck Lift can dramatically improve the contours of the jawline and tighten lax, wrinkled skin along the neck. Dr. Philip Schoenfeld has created a unique, innovative method for eliminating excess skin, fat, and stretched muscles to reveal a taut, smooth, youthful neckline. Sometimes referred to as cervicoplasty, the neck lift at Washington D.C.’s Renu by Dr. Schoenfeld will restore a youthful look to your neck and jawline.
To prolong a youthful appearance and display a more energetic look, Renu Artful Medicine offers patients an array of surgical and non-surgical eye rejuvenation procedures. One of the most transformative surgeries is blepharoplasty, commonly called eyelid lift surgery, performed by Dr. Philip Schoenfeld of the Washington, D.C. suburb, Chevy Chase, MD.
One of the first places to show our age is not the face or hands, but the neck. Vertical banding, full jowls, and the dreaded ‘turkey wattle’ below the chin can add unwanted years onto our appearance. Unfortunately, the delicate tissue of the neck is prone to wrinkles. Years of sun damage, smoking, hormone fluctuations, and weight loss will only accelerate these changes. Hiding behind a turtleneck or scarf is only a temporary fix.
If you are in overall good health and are frustrated with an aging neck, you may benefit from the neck lift at Renu by Dr. Schoenfeld. Ideal patients will understand the surgical technique and be committed to the recovery process. It is vital that patients have realistic expectations for their results. At the consultation appointment, Dr. Schoenfeld will discuss your aesthetic desires to determine if this procedure is for you. Both men and women can see rejuvenating results with the neck lift at Renu by Dr. Schoenfeld.
Many people find an excellent outcome with the neck lift as a stand-alone procedure. While others, needing more extensive correction, will get maximum benefits by combining the technique with other facial rejuvenating procedures such as a facelift or chin augmentation.
To determine if you are a good candidate for the neck lift procedure, a consultation with Dr. Schoenfeld will be scheduled. At this time, he will review your medical history and perform a physical evaluation of the face and neck. Dr. Schoenfeld will detail the techniques involved in this procedure, and explain how these may benefit your situation. Computer imaging can help with a visualization of the potential results. If you are a good candidate for this treatment, Dr. Schoenfeld will create a personalized surgical plan, and determine the exact cost of your upcoming procedure.
Dr. Schoenfeld performs the neck lift as an outpatient procedure, using general anesthesia or local anesthesia with IV sedation. Depending on the specific technique used, the procedure can take from one to three hours. For those patients who require minimal contouring, liposuction alone may provide good results, as long as the skin retains its natural elasticity. However, when there are significant signs of aging, such as a ‘turkey wattle’, jowling, excess fat, or sagging skin, a full neck lift will be required for optimal, rejuvenating results.
The Neck lift procedure and recovery will vary depending upon the exact procedure and issues that you have discussed preoperatively with Dr. Schoenfeld. Submental rejuvenation without significant skin laxity will generally involve liposuction and possible platysma tightening. Incisions generally consist of two small incisions behind the ear lobes and a 2cm incision in the submental skin crease in order to gain access and visualization of the platysma muscle bands.
Liposuction to the neck and submental region will be performed first and if necessary, fat from beneath the platysma muscle may need to be removed. Once this is completed, reapproximation of the platysma muscle with perhaps minimal removal of a small strip of muscle will be done prior to suture tightening of the muscles.
A full neck lift procedure will involve steps similar to the ones just outlines. The full neck lift is used in patients with significant amounts of excess neck skin with or without excess fat in the neck and/or laxity or banding of the platysma muscles of the neck. In the full procedure the incisions extend from just beneath the ear lobe, extending behind the ear and then tapering into the hairline behind the ear. Much like making a bed, in order to remove excess material in the form of sheets, the place to “tuck in” the excess skin needs to be in a place that is on the sides and inconspicuous.
Another 2cm incision may need to be placed beneath the chin if there is submental fullness or the platysma muscles of the neck need to be tightened. To begin this procedure, Dr. Schoenfeld will make several tiny incisions under the chin or behind the ears. Sutures will be placed in the incisions once the skin is repositioned and they will be removed in about six days. A light compression dressing will be placed and worn for a few days following the procedure.
This technique is also referred to as a Minimal Incision Facelift or Weekend Facelift. The procedure does not provide the extensive results seen with a traditional procedure, however the Mini Facelift has a short recovery period of about one week. Less pain and discomfort will be experienced, as well. This technique is well suited for patients in their 40s and 50s.
The SMAS – The Subcutaneous Muscular Aponuerotic Facial System (SMAS) is an area of facial muscle tissue. The SMAS is comprised of fibrous extensions connected to the upper two layers of the skin; all which move together as a single unit. As the facial tissues age, the SMAS will slowly glide downward, contributing to the sagging, drooping tissues.
Taking from one to two hours, the Mini Facelift is usually performed under local anesthesia and IV sedation. Dr. Schoenfeld will begin by making a small incision along the front of the ear, hidden within natural facial contours. Through these areas, a small amount of skin can be raised to allow for access to deeper tissues. Excess skin will be excised after the SMAS is lifted and sutured into place.
The SMAS technique is used to create tension within the deep facial tissues. For long lasting results, this will be suspended in an upward direction with permanent sutures, while removable stitches are used to close the incisions.
The cost of a neck lift in Washington, D.C., can range from $6,000 to $12,000, with some procedures exceeding $20,000. This wide range is the result of many factors that must be considered when determining the overall cost.
Dr. Schoenfeld recognizes that some cases may require additional procedures to provide a more natural-looking, balanced outcome. Therefore, it is common for patients to undergo a mini or full face lift in conjunction with a neck lift procedure.
Additionally, brow lifts, eyelid surgeries, chin implants, skin resurfacing procedures, and dermal filler injections can be combined with a neck lift to achieve your desired results.
The neck lift at Renu by Dr. Schoenfeld is a safe and effective procedure. Significant complications from the surgical technique are infrequent. On the rare occasion, however, problems can arise. These may include bleeding, unexpected scarring, infection, hematoma, and nerve damage. Patients are encouraged to protect their appearance and their health by only using a Board Certified plastic surgeon for their neck lift procedure. Dr. Schoenfeld brings more than 20 years of facial plastic surgery experience to every patient. He is a respected surgeon, sought after by patients from around the world.
Recovery from a neck lift will take from one to two weeks depending upon the type of neck lift procedure performed. After surgery, you may experience bruising, mild swelling, numbness, or tightness across your neck. Most of this will quickly resolve over the following four to five days. Temporary areas of numbness, itching, and tautness may take several months to dissipate. Most patients are feeling well enough to return to work and social activities ten to fourteen days after surgery.
Mild to moderate discomfort may be seen initially, however Dr. Schoenfeld will prescribe the necessary pain medications for a comfortable neck lift recovery period. A compression garment or surgical bandage may need to be worn for several weeks your neck lift, keeping swelling down and ensuring proper healing. Strenuous activities and contact sports should be postponed for four to six weeks.
Philip S. Schoenfeld, M.D., F.A.C.S.
Dr. Schoenfeld, the founder and Medical Director of Renu facial plastics of Chevy Chase, MD, is double board certified in Otolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery and Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. The doctor has been practicing facial plastic and reconstructive surgery for nearly two decades. An Army veteran, Dr. Schoenfeld completed his residency training at the internationally known Walter Reed Army Medical Center.
Aside from his duties as a cosmetic surgeon, the doctor works with trauma patients, has involvement in philanthropic work, and teaches upcoming practitioners about the art of facial plastics. Schedule a personalized visit with him today by calling 301-652-RENU (7368), or filling out his Patient Contact Form.
As a highly experienced double board certified plastic surgeon, I have dedicated my career to providing my patients with the best possible outcomes. I’ve specialized in facial plastic, reconstructive and cosmetic surgery in Washington DC and Maryland since 1998. My training and experience have given me a deep understanding of the anatomy of the face and body, and I use this knowledge to develop customized treatment plans for each of my patients.
I am committed to staying up to date with the latest advances in plastic surgery, and I use state-of-the-art technology and techniques to deliver the best results. I take a personalized approach to care, taking the time to understand each patient’s individual needs and goals.
When you choose me as your plastic surgeon, you can trust that you will receive the highest quality care and attention. I am dedicated to helping my patients achieve their desired results, and I will work with you every step of the way to ensure your complete satisfaction.
Here is what separates Dr. Schoenfeld from other surgeons in the DMV area:
